The Government urgently needs a new approach to tackling acid attacks

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14 Jul 2017

Diane Abbott MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, responding to the acid attacks that took place across London yesterday evening, said: “The recent spate of acid attacks have shocked the nation, but sadly they are nothing new. With a steady rise in attacks since 2010 and a steep increase of 70 per cent from 2015 to 2016, it is clear that the Government urgently needs a new approach to tackling this heinous crime.

"Just like knives and guns, acid is being used in murders, robberies and rapes. The problem is the weapon of choice is often a common household product. With very few prosecutions it is clear that we do not have the tools necessary to investigate and prevent these attacks.

"While the Tories arrogantly insist that they have protected the police budget, the reality is they have cut numbers by over 20,000, leaving our forces overstretched as they work tirelessly to keep the public and our communities safe.”